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Chimney Inspections

When should the chimney be inspected?

All chimneys should be inspected annually and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep when a buildup is noted. Burning wood creates CREOSOTE, a flammable substance that collects on the walls of the chimney, potentially providing fuel for a chimney fire. Certified chimney inspections are an important step in keeping your home and loved ones safe.

Sweeping the chimney removes this buildup. Gas and oil furnaces produce a type of soot that, while less flammable than creosote, can block the chimney and cause dangerous fumes, such as carbon monoxide, to back up into your home.

What events should trigger a chimney inspection?

Any time you notice visible soot anywhere in your home, this is a warning that the chimney is not operating properly. Discontinue use of the appliance that vents until the chimney can be inspected and the problem solved. Soot is carbon; visible carbon stains indicate that carbon monoxide has also been present.

All chimneys should also be inspected:

Before each heating season

Before installation of a new fuel burning appliance (wood stove, gas logs, new furnace or water heater)

Before purchase of a new house

Immediately after a chimney fire or house fire

If your home has been struck by lightning

If your chimney has been hit by a falling tree, or other events that may have caused impact damage

If you notice water stains on the inside or outside of your home in the vicinity of the chimney

All of our chimney inspectors are certified by the Chimney Sweep Institute of America. Whether you need a fireplace inspection or an inspection for your furnace flue, our chimney inspection service is thorough, complete, and done using state of the art equipment.